A pediatric dentist from New York is facing serious legal trouble after being arrested in Florida for allegedly threatening to shoot his family during a heated confrontation. The incident has raised concern in both the dental and local communities, particularly because the accused continues to practice in New York.
Dentist Accused of Violent Threat
Dr. Mayer Noskow, who operates Poughkeepsie Pediatric in Poughkeepsie, New York, was arrested in Boca Raton, Florida, on charges of simple assault with intent to do violence. According to multiple reports published on June 18, the arrest followed a disturbing altercation at Noskow’s Florida residence involving his visiting family members.
The conflict reportedly escalated after Noskow’s brother confronted him about self-prescribing medication, a matter that appears to have sparked a volatile reaction. Sources say Noskow became enraged when the topic came up, leading to what authorities are now treating as a criminal threat.
Alleged Threats and Physical Confrontation
According to witness accounts, the dentist allegedly jumped up from a couch during the argument and shouted, “I’m going to shoot everyone in this house.” He then reportedly charged at his brother, prompting the brother to react defensively by shoulder-checking him. The force of the impact allegedly caused Noskow to fall to the floor.
The dentist’s sister-in-law, who was outside during the argument, reportedly heard the threats and, fearing for her family’s safety, grabbed her child and fled the residence. Police were later called to the scene.
Held Under Florida’s Baker Act
Following the incident, Dr. Noskow was taken into custody and held under Florida’s Baker Act, a state law that allows authorities to detain individuals for mental health evaluations if they are considered a threat to themselves or others. As of June 18, Noskow remained in custody at the Palm Beach County Jail.
The Baker Act is designed to address mental health crises and provides for temporary, involuntary examination and detention for up to 72 hours. It is not a criminal charge in itself but often accompanies investigations involving threats or erratic behavior.
Professional and Legal Implications
While Dr. Noskow currently faces a misdemeanor charge of simple assault, the incident could have broader implications for his professional practice. As the owner of a pediatric dental clinic in Poughkeepsie, parents and patients may now have questions about the dentist’s conduct and fitness to continue treating children.
Medical and dental licensing boards typically review criminal charges—especially those involving violence or controlled substances—for possible disciplinary action. At this time, there has been no formal statement from Poughkeepsie Pediatric or the New York State Board for Dentistry regarding the incident.
Presumption of Innocence
It is important to note that a criminal complaint is merely an allegation. Dr. Mayer Noskow, like all individuals charged with a crime, is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Legal proceedings are expected to continue in Florida, and further details may emerge as the case develops.
A Wake-Up Call for Mental Health and Prescription Oversight
The case serves as a reminder of the serious consequences that can arise from unaddressed mental health issues and the misuse of prescription authority, particularly in medical professionals. Whether or not Noskow’s alleged self-prescribing played a role in the escalation of the incident, it is now part of an official police record and may be scrutinized in court.
The investigation is ongoing, and updates will likely follow pending court appearances and mental health evaluations.
For those affected by or witnessing mental health crises, help is available. If you or someone you know is in danger or experiencing a crisis, contact local authorities or mental health services immediately.
Leave a Reply